Things To Do
in Almaty
Almaty is Kazakhstan's largest city and cultural capital, set against the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountain range. It blends modern skylines with wide boulevards, leafy parks, and a vibrant market culture that reflects Kazakh hospitality. Outdoor access is immediate here, from easy city walks to hikes in the surrounding alpine valleys.
A dynamic mix of tradition and contemporary energy makes Almaty a gateway to both heritage and adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Kazakh dishes like baursaks and kasha. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Panfilov Park, where you can admire the stunning wooden Zenkov Cathedral. Spend some time soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and the lush greenery that surrounds this historical area.
Visit the State Central Museum to delve into the rich history and culture of Kazakhstan, with exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art. Following your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local specialties such as beshbarmak. Conclude the afternoon by exploring the bustling Green Bazaar, where you can experience the lively market scene and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to Kok Tobe Hill via the cable car for panoramic views of Almaty. Dine at the restaurant on top of the hill, savoring local cuisine while enjoying the city lights below. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the hilltop park, soaking in the serene atmosphere and the stunning vistas.
Start your day with a drive to the famous Medeu Skating Rink, enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Spend your morning ice-skating on the world's highest outdoor rink, relishing the crisp mountain air and the exhilaration of gliding across the ice. If you're not keen on skating, you can enjoy a warm drink at the café while soaking in the picturesque scenery.
Afterward, take a short cable car ride up to Shymbulak Ski Resort, where you can partake in skiing or snowboarding on the pristine slopes. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, enjoy a scenic hike in the area, surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes. Have lunch at one of the cozy mountain restaurants, sampling hearty dishes that will fuel your afternoon activities.
As evening approaches, return to Almaty and unwind at a local spa or wellness center, indulging in a traditional Kazakh massage. After a refreshing break, enjoy dinner at a chic restaurant in the city center, where you can taste modern interpretations of Kazakh cuisine. End your day with a nightcap at a local bar, mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚇One-way public transport ticket | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🎬Cinema ticket | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain backdrop and easy access to nature
- Friendly hospitality and diverse cuisine
- Vibrant markets, artistic scene, and growing nightlife
- Modern infrastructure with a mix of old and new districts
- Winter travel can be very cold and roads icy
- Some areas are hilly and walkability varies by neighbourhood
- Language barrier outside central areas; some services require Russian or Kazakh
- "Сәлеметсіз бе?" - Hello (Kazakh)
- "Рақмет" - Thank you
- "Қанша тұрады?" - How much does it cost?
- "Өтінемін" - Please
- "Где находится туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Almaty
Visit one of these nice places.
A hilltop viewpoint reached by a scenic cable car offering sweeping city and mountain views, especially at sunset.
Colorful wooden cathedral with a dramatic backdrop and a lively park perfect for wide shots and candid street scenes.
Aquamarine alpine lake framed by rugged peaks; a must for landscape photography with reflective water and cloudscapes.
Neo-classical exterior and ornate interiors provide elegant architectural photography, especially at night after illumination.
Vivid market stalls and busy plazas offer dynamic color contrasts and human-interest photography.
Food in Almaty
Almaty Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The national dish of boiled meat served over flat noodles, typically enjoyed in traditional Kazakh eateries.
Must-Try!
Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat, often served with sour cream or a light broth.
A hearty noodle soup with meat, vegetables, and herbs, popular across Central Asia.
Chargrilled skewered meat, widely sold at street stalls and grills around the city.
A rustic pan fried meat dish with potatoes and onions, common in home style Kazakh cooking.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling traditional market with fresh produce, nuts, dried fruits, cheeses, and smoked meats; great for sampling local snacks.
Casual stalls around the market area offering shashlyk, samsa, chebureki, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; make eye contact. In formal settings, address people by titles and surnames.
Hospitality is important; if offered tea or a meal, accepting is polite. Remove shoes when entering some homes in traditional settings.
Smart casual is typical in urban areas; dress modestly when visiting religious sites or traditional areas.
Safety
Tipping in Almaty
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving about 5-10% is common if service is not included. Small tips at cafes or bars are appreciated.
Cash (Kazakh tenge) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops; ATMs are common. Some street vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sunny skies, ideal for outdoor markets, hill climbs, and lake trips. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible; wear sunscreen and light layers.
Mild weather with colorful foliage in the city and mountains; great for hiking and photography along the ridges.
Cold, often snowy, with mountain resorts offering skiing and ice activities. Dress warmly and be mindful of icy sidewalks.
Moderate temperatures and blooming trees; good for city walks and nearby trails as the snow melts.
Almaty at Night
Hiking in Almaty
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested canyons and waterfalls within a short drive from city life, ideal for day hikes.
Easy to moderate trails around the lakes with panoramic alpine views.
A multi-day trek through pine forests to a sequence of emerald lakes in the Northern Tian Shan.
Airports
How to reach Almaty by plane.
Located about 20 km southeast of the city, with frequent domestic and international flights; taxis, rideshares, and airport shuttles are available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group with strong national identity and language traditions.
A sizable historic minority contributing to education and culture.
A diverse mix representing the region's markets and labor force.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport with local clubs and public pitches across the city.
Favored in winter; local teams and indoor rinks host games.
Traditional and modern wrestling events occur in sports complexes and cultural venues.
Shymbulak and Medeu offer winter sports on nearby slopes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Almaty.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is central to many dishes, you can find vegetarian-friendly options like lagman without meat, vegetable platters, dumplings filled with vegetables, salads, and breads. When ordering, ask for no meat stock and request vegetable-based sides.